Title: Unnecessary injections increase the risk of AIDS transmission [letter]

POPLINE Document Number: 095893

Author(s):

Gitanjali B

Source citation:

WORLD HEALTH FORUM, 1993;14(3):291-2.

Abstract:

Among 2953 drug prescriptions at 2 primary health centers in India, 1406 were for injections (474 vitamin B complex, 465 parenteral antibiotics, and 165 analgesics, with 60% given for placebo effect). 355 patients received tetracyclines, which are poorly absorbed through injections, and the drugs were only properly indicated for 15 of these patients. The primary health center nurse used 10 glass syringes and 25 needles to administer 150-200 injections/day over a 3-3.5 hour period. It is, thus, impossible to guarantee adequate sterilization of this equipment. Whereas the health center doctors were aware of the danger of AIDS transmission through injections, they felt immense pressure from their patients to prescribe injection. Because disposable material is not financially feasible for Indian health centers, the supply of needles and syringes should be immediately increased to improve chances of adequate sterilization. In addition, an intensive medical information campaign should warn prescribers and patients alike of the dangers of AIDS transmission in order to reduce the number of injections.

Keywords:

India
AIDS
Drugs
Prescriptions
Treatment
Administration and Dosage
Asia, Southern
Asia
Developing Countries
HIV Infections
Viral Diseases
Diseases
Distributional Activities
Program Activities
Programs
Organization and Administration